| POSITION SUMMARY: The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is responsible for the independent operation of sonographic equipment, and for performing and communicating results of diagnostic examinations using sonography. The Diagnostic Medical Sonographer is responsible for daily operations of the ultrasound department, patient schedule, equipment maintenance, the report of equipment failures, and quality assessment (QA). The technologist maintains a high standard of medical ethics at all times and is self-motivated to increase level of understanding and knowledge of the field, disease, and new procedures as they evolve. Responsible for interacting with hospital staff and/or nursing departments regarding patient care, concerns, and conflicts by identifying and assisting in the resolutions. Routinely works weekdays, weekends, holidays, evenings, nights, overtime, and/or on-call status when needed. Will also be subject to assigned responsibilities in other departmental areas and /or other system wide facilities as needed with departmental head approval and appropriate training and direction as may be appropriate to the task. This position summary contains the most relevant duties and responsibilities and does not exclude other assignments not mentioned. BLOOD-BORNE PATHOGENS EXPOSURE CATEGORY (OSHA) Category I: Exposed to blood-borne or potentially infectious material. __X __ Category II: Sometimes exposed to blood-borne or potentially infectious material. ______ Category III: Not exposed to blood-borne or potentially infectious material. ______ QUALIFICATIONS: Must demonstrate commitment and adherence to STHS's Compliance Program and Code of Conduct through compliance with all policies and procedures, the Code of Conduct, attendance at required training and immediately reporting suspected compliance issue(s) to the Compliance Officer. Education- Graduate of a formal Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program or Cardiovascular Technology Program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) is desirable.
- Bachelor or Associate of Science degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography or Cardiovascular Technology is desirable.
- Current compliance with Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements for specialty(ies) as appropriate.
Required Licenses/Certifications Experience - At least one year experience in abdominal, small parts, neurosonology and OB/GYN studies is desirable.
- Bilingual (English, Spanish) status is desirable
Demonstration of Skills and Abilities- Ability to effectively operate sonographic equipment.
- Ability to evaluate sonograms in order to acquire appropriate diagnostic information.
- Ability to integrate diagnostic sonograms, laboratory results, patient history and medical records, and adapt sonographic examination as necessary.
- Ability to use independent judgment to acquire the optimum diagnostic sonographic information in each examination performed.
- Ability to evaluate, synthesize, and communicate diagnostic information to the attending physician.
- Ability to communicate effectively with the patient and the health care team, recognizing the special nature of examinations and patient's needs.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and health care team.
- Ability to follow established departmental procedures.
- Ability to work efficiently and cope with emergency situations
Essential Functions Performs clinical assessment and diagnostic sonography examinations. Uses cognitive sonographic skills to identify, record, and adapt procedures as appropriate to anatomical, pathological, diagnostic information and images. Uses independent judgment during the sonographic exam to accurately differentiate between normal and pathologic findings. Analyses sonograms, synthesizes sonographic information and medical history, and communicates findings to the appropriate physician. Coordinates work schedule with Departmental Director and/or scheduling desk to assure workload coverage. Assumes responsibility for the safety, mental and physical comfort of patients while they are in the sonographer's care. Assists with the daily operations of the sonographic laboratory. Maintains a daily log of patients seen / completes exam billing forms. Maintains ultrasound equipment and work area, and maintains adequate supplies. Participates in the maintenance of laboratory accreditation. Establishes and maintains ethical working relationships and good rapport with all interrelating hospitals, referral or commercial agencies. Performs other work-related duties as assigned. Examples of Duties & Responsibilities Performs all requested examinations as ordered by the physician. Prepares preliminary reports and contacts referring physicians when required, according to established procedures. Coordinates with other staff to assure appropriate patient care is provided. Addresses problems of patient care as they arise and makes decisions to appropriately resolve the problems. Organizes daily work schedule and performs related clerical duties as required. Assumes responsibility for the safety and well-being of all patients in the area/department. Reports equipment failures to the appropriate supervisor or staff member. Provides in-service education team on requirements of sonographic procedures as requested by other members of the health care team. Performs other related duties as assigned. SUBJECT: EXPOSURE DETERMINATION Protective Gear Checklist Legend: X - Routinely required S - Required if soiling of clothes or splash is likely |
